Scientists Create Shape-Shifting Robot That Can 'Melt' Itself To Reach Cramped Spaces
Who doesn't like shape-shifting robots? While you raise your hand, we're here to tell you about a new extreme robot that blurs the lines between a drone, a vehicle, and a shape-shifting device.
Extreme capabilities of robot
Developed by engineers at Virginia Tech, the robot has extreme capabilities - it can melt its own skeleton to go from a four-wheeled remote control unit to a flying robot.
Reported first by The Daily Beast, the robot is made from a specialised alloy that can melt at 60 degree Celsius (140 degree F). With help from a "heating apparatus," the robot can reshape its body to suit its needs. The best part? It only takes a few minutes for the robot/drone/shape-shifter to change its form.
Once it has shape-shifted, it cools down to function as intended without issues, unless you want it to change form again.
Also read:?Robot Bartender At Beijing Winter Olympics Prepares Drinks In 90 Seconds
Published in a new paper in Science Robotics, the robot may be extremely helpful in disaster management and response. In addition, it could also help researchers explore terrain that may not be suitable for humans on Earth and perhaps elsewhere.
In a statement, study's co-author Edward Barron III said that the composites of the robot are "strong enough to withstand the forces from motors or propulsion systems, yet can readily shape morph, which allows machines to adapt to their environment."
Also read:?Robot Performs Delicate Laparoscopic Surgery Without Human Help First Time Ever
The study was headed by?Michael Bartlett?with?graduate students Dohgyu Hwang and Edward J. Barron III and postdoctoral researcher A. B. M. Tahidul Haque as co-authors.
What do you think about these futuristic robots? Let us know in the comments below.?For more in the world of?technology?and?science, keep reading?Indiatimes.com.
References
Patel, N. V. (2022, February 11). Watch This Robot Shape-Shift by Melting Its Own Metallic Skeleton. The Daily Beast.?
